‘Although there is always some drop-off in membership after big events like generation elections, or a leadership contest, this is more than you would ordinarily expect and has led many of us to think it’s linked to Jeremy’s unpopular stance on Brexit.’

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After the 2017 general election, Jeremy Corbyn’s popularity was at its height and Labour was considered the ‘largest party in western Europe’ with more than 500,000 members.

However, according to reports it has lost between 100,000 and 150,000 members in that time.

The number of paid-up activists now stands at 385,000.

Corbyn faces a split within the party as many Labour voters in the north of England voted Leave while younger activists are pro-EU.

According to polls, 72% of Labour members want their leader to support a second vote on Brexit.

A study by Professor Tim Bale of Queen Mary, University of London, found 88% would opt for remaining in the EU if another vote was held.

Many in the Labour party want a second referendum (Picture: Rex)

Officially, Labour’s policy is that a second referendum could be considered if there is not a general election.

Privately Corbyn dislikes the idea, although those around him are in favour of a People’s Vote.

The Labour leader is calling for a softer Brexit in the form of a customs union but is refusing to meet with Theresa May to discuss a plan until she rules out a ‘No Deal’ departure.

Today, Labour’s Brexit spokesman Keir Starmer appeared to directly contradict his leader by saying that Britain’s only options were a second Brexit referendum – or close EU ties.

His appearance on the BBC’s Andrew Marr show hints at continued splits within the leadership of the official opposition.